Frequently Asked Questions
Discover How Travel Healthcare Agencies Work
Assignments & Contracts
Where does Pulse Healthcare Services offer assignments?
Pulse offers travel assignments across the United States.
How long are travel assignments?
Most travel assignments last for 13 weeks. However, Pulse frequently has opportunities lasting 8-26 weeks for your flexibility. Extensions are also possible, allowing you to work with a facility for up to a year.
What licensing do I need to start my first assignment?
For RNs, LPNs, and LVNs: If your primary residence is in a state that recognizes the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), possessing or obtaining the credential will allow you to start an assignment in any state that also recognizes the NLC.
For other healthcare professionals and nurses ineligible for the NLC: You will need to possess or apply for licensure by endorsement through the board of nursing in your destination state.
Learn more about state labor laws and other licensure compacts you may qualify for.
How many hours per week do Pulse Healthcare Services travelers work?
Most of our assignments are for 36-48 hours per week.
Can I break a travel nurse contract?
Yes, you can break your contract if an emergency occurs. However, keep in mind that doing so can lead to you not getting rehired by the healthcare facility or our staffing agency. A broken contract can cost travel healthcare agencies thousands in expenses, as well as reputational damages, while preventing the facility from offering quality, uninterrupted care.
Proactively communicating with your recruiter and onsite supervisor is the best way to avoid getting blacklisted in emergency situations.
Can I extend my contract with a healthcare facility?
Yes, you can extend your contract if both you and your healthcare facility agree. You can stay in the same location for up to a year—otherwise the IRS will deem you as a resident of the state, and we will not be able to provide non-taxable travel stipends. You can request an extension in our app.
Pay & Benefits
How much will I get paid as a travel healthcare professional?
Pay rates vary based on position, location, healthcare facility, and expected hours. However, Pulse Healthcare Services is always committed to offering industry-leading pay for every assignment—guaranteed for the total number of hours you’ve agreed to work in your contract—in addition to your per diem allowance.
What benefits are available to Pulse Healthcare Services employees?
Pulse offers a wide range of benefits including competitive PTO, 401(k) match, and comprehensive insurance packages that include health (PPO or HMO), dental, and liability coverage. Full-time employees also qualify for company-covered AD&D insurance and short-term disability coverage.
Explore our benefits to learn more about how Pulse Healthcare Services provides financial security and peace of mind on every assignment
How often will I get paid when traveling with Pulse Healthcare Services?
Pulse provides weekly direct deposits every Friday to ensure our healthcare professionals are paid promptly and reliably for their hard work.
Does Pulse Healthcare Services provide housing assistance?
Yes! Whether you want a weekly housing stipend or corporate housing, our Travel Coordinator will help you find the perfect home away from home for your travels.
Does Pulse Healthcare Services cover the cost of continuing education?
Yes! Pulse offers annual continuing education unit (CEU) reimbursements for full-time employees, so you can maintain your credentials and grow.
Working with Pulse Healthcare Services
What types of healthcare professionals do Pulse Healthcare Services staff?
Pulse is a travel healthcare agency that specializes in staffing nurses—including RNAs, LPNs, LVNs, and CNAs—as well as locum tenens and allied health professionals. We offer opportunities in a wide range of specializations, so you can find assignments that fit your competencies and goals.
How can I start working with Pulse Healthcare Services?
Getting started with Pulse Healthcare Services is easy. Simply head to our Job Search page to browse opportunities, build your Pulse profile, and apply.
You can also download our app on the App Store or Google Play for streamlined profile management, one-tap applications, and offer tracking.
Does Pulse Healthcare Services have a referral program?
Yes! When you refer a new employee to Pulse, you can earn up to $1,000 when they complete their first 13-week assignment with our company. Submit a referral now to start the process.
How can I contact Pulse for support?
The Pulse team is available to support you Monday to Friday, 9am to 5:30pm. Contact us at 1-866-PULSE-RN or info@pulsehealthinc.com.
How can I contact Pulse for after-hours emergencies?
When our office is closed—before 9am and after 5:30pm—we offer a 24/7 hotline for emergency support. Simply call 301-799-3265.